What You Should Know about Car Insurance in Bakersfield, California

Welcome to the Oil Capital of California! Located in Central Valley, the oil industry has heavily influenced Bakersfield’s economy since the early 20th century. The Central Valley region is one of the most important agricultural sites in the world. Bakersfield is known for its farms and production of almonds, citrus fruits, grapes, and many vegetables.

Locals enjoy attending the Kern County Fair for its rides, games, live entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and other yearly festivals to celebrate music, food, and cultural diversity. Local sports fans enjoy Condors hockey games and baseball at Sam Lynn Ballpark, home of the Bakersfield Train Robbers.

Driving to any of these activities is relatively straightforward. Bakersfield experiences a mild climate most of the year, except for extreme heat during the summer and occasional thunderstorms, increasing the risks of slick roads and reduced visibility. Expert agents are waiting to help you find the best auto insurance at the best price in California, no matter which Bakersfield adventures you frequent.

How Much Does Car Insurance Cost in Bakersfield, California?

Pricing for California auto protection varies depending on the details of your plan. Full auto coverage  typically includes collision and comprehensive benefits and cost more than those with the minimum requirements determined by the state.

The typical California resident pays $2,663 annually for full auto policies. For liability insurance coverage, the average Californian spends $647 per year.

California is an expensive place to insure your vehicle compared to the rest of the country. Nationally, most people pay $2,314 annually for full auto coverage and $644 per year for state minimum liability.

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Reasons Why Insurance is So Expensive in California

Several factors contribute to the high premium costs in California. First, the state has high population density and traffic volume, increasing the likelihood of accidents and claims. These risks thus impact premium pricing.

Second, California is susceptible to natural disasters, such as wildfires, earthquakes, floods, and mudslides. Floods are one of the most common natural disasters, and frequent catastrophic events result in increased property damage claims, driving up prices across the board.

Even though California offers so much natural beauty, the risks impact your rates. However, it’s still important to have auto coverage and any additional policies for your assets, like flood insurance. Without protection options like these, damage costs could be devastating, and having a policy gives you a financial buffer and peace of mind if something unexpected happens.

Car Insurance Rates Comparison by Zip Code in Bakersfield

Below is a comparison of the average monthly premiums paid in various zip codes across Bakersfield.

Zip Code Full Coverage Insurance Liability Insurance Coverage
93304 $193 $76
92805 $183 $70
92806 $180 $71
92807 $190 $73
92808 $183 $73

How Bundling Your Car and Homeowners Insurance Can Save You Money in Bakersfield

Purchasing two or more policies with the same insurer, or bundling your coverage, simplifies policy management while saving you money on premiums. For example, auto and homeowners insurance packages are just one combination of plans that can help save you money.  Bundling your auto and home protection can save you as much as 25% off your current pricing.

You’ll need to get quotes from several carriers to get competitive pricing options without compromising on quality. InsureOne can customize your packages to meet your needs and budget. Expert agents do the research for you and put together several options that best fit what you’re looking for, saving you time and money

What Types of Car Insurance Discounts are Available in Bakersfield?

Most insurers offer a variety of ways to help lower the cost of your premiums, including discounts. Here are just some of the savings you can qualify for in Bakersfield:

  • Customer Retention Discount
  • Anti-Theft Discount
  • Military Discount
  • Senior Citizen Discount
  • Auto Pay Discount
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Notable Car Insurance Laws in Bakersfield

What are the Mandatory Car Insurance Requirements in Bakersfield?

California regulates auto requirement legislation in Bakersfield and all cities in the Golden State, including Bakersfield. California law requires 15/30/5 for all minimum liability auto policies, or:

  • The minimum required bodily injury/death liability coverage is $15,000 for one person and $30,000 for two or more people per accident.
  • A minimum of $5,000 for property damage.

What is the Penalty for Driving without Insurance in Bakersfield?

In California, it’s illegal to drive without auto coverage, and Bakersfield motorists are no exception to this rule. Should you get pulled over by law enforcement and not provide documentation of your policy, you can experience legal and financial consequences.

For instance, the first time you receive a ticket, you’ll pay a one-time fine between $100 and $200. If you have another offense, you’ll pay between $200 and $500, plus additional penalty assessments that can raise these fines to $520 to $1,300.

It’s best to always work with a provider you can trust and rely upon, like InsureOne. Experts here support you in managing your policies so you never have a lapse or miss your plan renewal and avoid penalties and unwanted expenses.

Do Bakersfield-Specific Laws Play a Role in Determining Your Insurance Premiums?

Auto protection requirements are the same throughout California, so legislation alone wouldn’t necessarily affect your premiums in Bakersfield. However, insurers look at a variety of factors that affect your rates, such as:

  • The kind of automobile you drive. Generally, American auto brands have lower rates than luxury or sports vehicles.
  • Your age. Insurers look at your experience on the road. Your rates tend to go down with time until you hit your 60s, get in an accident, or get a ticket.
  • Your level of education. Your provider considers how long you went to school, like whether you graduated from Bakersfield High School, got an undergraduate degree at California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB), or mastered a trade at San Joaquin Valley College – Bakersfield Campus.
  • The zip code of where you park your vehicle most often, usually your residential zip code
  • Your driving frequency. If you typically use your vehicle to run local errands or pick your kids up from baseball practice, you’ll pay less than someone who commutes for an hour every day.
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Here’s What You Need to Know When Driving in California

Driving in California is unique: the state is known for its vast landscapes, diverse terrain, and bustling cities. There are many things to enjoy about The Golden State, and it’s essential to understand local traffic laws and regulations to appreciate all the state has to offer while staying safe on the road.

One of the best parts of driving in California is the stunning coastline and mountainous terrain. With these views, motorists also experience unique challenges. Coastal roads like the Pacific Coast Highway can be winding and narrow, requiring extra caution and attention.

Next, California has strict laws regarding cellphone use while driving. It’s essential to avoid texting or holding a phone while driving as it’s illegal, and going hands-free with your devices will help you avoid fines if you get pulled over.

Lastly, California requires all motorists to have active auto protection to drive legally. At InsureOne, a team of expert agents provides white-glove services to get you high-quality policies with customizable options that best meet your needs.

Typical Driving Conditions in Bakersfield

Driving conditions in Bakersfield, California, are impacted by its Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild winters. Temperatures can soar during the summer, often exceeding 100°F, and increase the risk of your automobile overheating.

Motorists can also be affected by occasional dust storms, particularly in agricultural areas like Bakersfield. These storms can reduce visibility and create hazardous road conditions.

Regardless of visibility or weather conditions, it’s essential to protect your automobile from the heat and stay alert and maintain appropriate distances with other vehicles to avoid accidents and stay safe.

How Many Car Accidents Happen in Bakersfield Per Year?

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) releases information about accidents in California and across the country every year. Between 2017 and 2022, Bakersfield experienced 281 fatal automobile accidents.

Here is a comparison of annual Bakersfield accidents to other cities in California:

City Annual Average Number of Fatal Car Crashes
Bakersfield 47
Oakland 31
Fresno 52
San Jose 65
Sacramento 57

How Many Uninsured/Underinsured Motorists are in Bakersfield?

In comparison to most other states California has some of the highest numbers of uninsured/underinsured motorists. In fact, it ranks 9th in the county with the most improperly insured motorists, with 16.6% carrying no or insufficient coverage.

California law requires all motorists to have an active policy to drive legally, so it’s wise to carry documentation to avoid fines, jail time, and potential financial hardship if you get in an accident with someone who cannot pay for your repairs or medical bills.

Get Covered by the Best Car Insurance in Bakersfield, CA Today

InsureOne offers services with expert agents who listen to your needs and help you find competitive coverage options. We offer a top-tier, one-stop insurance shopping experience to help California motorists like you secure high-quality protection for your most important assets.

We save you time and money by researching plans and pricing and presenting a selection of options that best suit your needs. Get a quote online, visit us at an office near you, or call us at (800) 836-2240 for a quote.

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